As the holy month of Ramzan begins, the streets of Visakhapatnam come alive with the aroma of haleem boiling in huge pans. This hearty dish is a rich blend of meat, lentils, wheat and aromatic spices, ground to a creamy consistency. Across the city, Haleem lovers are flocking to popular dining spots that serve delicious dishes on this evening, each bringing its own unique touch to the preparation. From classic mutton haleem to chicken variations, here is where you can enjoy the best haleem in Visakhapatnam this season.
Hotel Daspalla
At Hotel Daspalla, haleem takes on a luxurious, creamy texture, striking the perfect balance between smoothness and body. When pounded by hand with precision, it avoids the pasty consistency that sometimes reduces the depth of flavor of the dish. The slow cooked mutton blends seamlessly with the ghee and spices, making every piece delicious and mild in taste. You can order the hotel’s whole wheat paratha to taste the richness of Haleem. Mutton Haleem is the only option available here, priced at ₹400 for 200 grams.
Lazeez Pista Haleem Point, Daba Garden
People feasting on Haleem at the delicious Pista Point in Daba Garden, Visakhapatnam. , Photo Courtesy: KR Deepak
By evening, the delicious Pista Haleem Point at Daba Garden turns into a bustling hub, with cars and two-wheelers lining up and customers eagerly waiting for their orders. Unlike other places, this place offers multiple options with both chicken and mutton haleem. Their combos, which include a soft drink, make for a complete iftar – chicken haleem plus soft drink is priced at ₹170, while mutton haleem plus soft drink is priced at ₹200. Haleem is flavourful and thick, with just the right amount of spices to enhance the tenderness of the meat. Some other iftar specials include mutton paya and tandoori roti.
Dil Se Hyderabadi Haleem, Jagadamba Junction
People buying Haleem at a stall during the month of Ramzan near Mecca Masjid in Jagadamba in Visakhapatnam. , Photo Courtesy: KR Deepak
One of the earliest Haleem places in Vizag, Hyderabadi Haleem at heart, has been a popular spot for years. Tucked away in a lane near the bustling Jagadamba Junction, this place specializes in traditional mutton and chicken haleem. What sets their Haleem apart is its mildly spicy yet deeply aromatic flavour, which is a result of slow cooking and constant stirring that gives it a velvety-smooth consistency. The texture strikes a good balance – not too thick, not too soft – ensuring that the meat fibers are well integrated while still retaining some bite. Served in two portion sizes, it is a perfect option for both light and hearty appetites. To end on a sweet note, their Pumpkin Kheer, a gourd-based dessert, is a must-try for those who want to complete their meal with something traditional.
Nawabi Haleem, Mecca Masjid (Jagadamba Junction)
Considered to be the oldest Haleem joint in Visakhapatnam, Nawabi Haleem is a simple kiosk near Mecca Masjid at Jagadamba Junction that has been serving this dish since 2004. Despite its small setup, this place has a devoted following, with loyal customers returning every year for its traditional preparations.
Paradise, VIP Road
Like every year, Paradise on VIP Road is serving Haleem in convenient takeaway boxes, making it an easy option for those who want to enjoy the dish in the comfort of their homes. Known for its consistency in taste, the haleem here is well balanced, with the right blend of spices and textures that goes well with its typical garnish of fried onions and cashew nuts. Haleem is also available during day time in Jannat.
Zeeshan Halim, in front of Chitralaya
Haleem is cooked during the month of Ramzan in Visakhapatnam. , Photo Courtesy: KR Deepak
Located on the busy Jagadamba Road, Zeeshan Haleem is attracting a good number of food lovers this season. With its mutton and chicken haleem, this place is becoming a go-to spot for those looking for a satisfying iftar. The thick consistency and balanced spice level make it a comforting dish that keeps customers coming back for more.
